Zinc Pyrithione
Zinc Pyrithione is a high-purity antimicrobial and antifungal compound derived from the coordination of zinc with pyrithione (1-hydroxy-2-pyridinethione). It is widely used as an active ingredient in personal care formulations, industrial coatings, and materials preservation due to its broad-spectrum biocidal efficacy against bacteria, fungi, and algae. Its excellent thermal stability and compatibility with various systems make it ideal for diverse industrial and cosmetic applications.
Zinc Pyrithione
Primary Uses
Personal Care & Cosmetics
- Anti-Dandruff Agent: Widely used in shampoos and scalp treatments to control dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
- Antifungal in Skin Products: Used in creams and lotions to treat fungal skin conditions like tinea and seborrheic dermatitis.
Paints & Coatings Industry
- Dry Film Preservative: Protects painted surfaces from fungal and algal growth, especially in humid conditions.
- Marine Coatings: Used in anti-fouling marine paints to prevent biofilm formation on ship hulls and underwater structures.
Plastics & Polymers
- Antimicrobial Additive: Integrated into plastic products, sealants, and silicone to prevent microbial colonization.
Textiles
- Antibacterial Treatment: Used in technical and medical textiles for microbial control and odor resistance.
Secondary Uses
Construction Materials
- Biocide in Sealants and Adhesives: Added to construction sealants to prevent mold and mildew.
Industrial Water Systems
- Microbial Control Agent: Occasionally used in industrial water circuits to prevent microbial growth (under regulated conditions).
Leather Treatment
- Preservative: Applied during leather processing to inhibit microbial degradation and mold formation.
Agriculture (Restricted/Regulated)
- Fungicide (Specialty Applications): Under strict regulatory control, used in select applications to prevent fungal growth on surfaces or equipment.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Bis(1-hydroxy-2(1H)-pyridinethionato-O,S)zinc
- Common/Trade Name: Zinc Pyrithione
- CAS Number: 13463-41-7
- HS Code: 2930.90.99
- Synonyms: ZPT, Zinc Omadine, Zinci pyrithionis
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Crystalline powder
- Color & Odor: White to pale yellow; faint odor
- Melting Point: ~240 °C (decomposes)
- Solubility: Poorly soluble in water; soluble in ethanol and surfactant systems
- pH (1% Suspension): ~6.5–8.0
- Density: ~1.8 g/cm³
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification:
- Harmful if swallowed
- Causes serious eye irritation
- Very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects
- Toxicity: Moderately toxic; not for internal or long-term unregulated exposure
- Exposure Limits: Avoid inhalation of powder; handle with PPE
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place, in tightly sealed containers away from direct sunlight and moisture
- Container Type: Fiber drums or HDPE containers with liners
- Shelf Life: 2 years under proper storage conditions
- Handling Precautions: Avoid dust generation and contact with eyes or skin
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Approved by FDA, EU, and other regulatory bodies for limited concentrations in personal care products
- Complies with REACH and TSCA for industrial use
- Subject to maximum concentration limits in cosmetics (typically 0.3% in rinse-off products)
- Not for use in food or pharmaceutical products
- Manufactured under ISO 9001 and ISO 22716 (GMP for cosmetics, when applicable)
- Must meet biocidal product regulations (BPR) in the EU and FIFRA in the U.S.
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Slowly biodegradable under environmental conditions
- Ecotoxicity: Highly toxic to aquatic organisms; must not be released into waterways
- Bioaccumulation: Low to moderate potential; environmental monitoring recommended
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves, goggles, dust mask or respirator
- Handling Guidelines: Use local exhaust ventilation; avoid formation of airborne dust
- Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly sealed; label clearly
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately; seek medical attention if breathing difficulties occur
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water
- Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for 15 minutes; consult a physician
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water; do not induce vomiting; seek medical help
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable; may release toxic fumes (sulfur oxides, zinc oxides) if heated excessively
- Extinguishing Media: Water spray, dry powder, CO₂
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Sulfur dioxide, zinc oxide fumes

Preservatives(food)
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